Congratulations to the first graduates of the new Peep Babies at Haltwhistle Family Hub.  
 

Peep is a free six-week programme that aims to help parents and carers make the most of the simple and low-cost learning opportunities on offer in everyday life to support their child’s development. 

 

As well as talking, singing, sharing books and playing together, the classes are also a great way to get to know other families. 

 

Along with Peep Babies, there are also Peep Toddlers, Peep Early Communicators and Peep pre-school covering ages from 0-5. They are the latest addition to the range of free parenting sessions available in person and online through Northumberland County Council’s Family Hubs. 

 

Formerly known as SureStart Children’s Centres, the Family Hubs now offer support for families for children of all ages from 0-19 and 0-25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities. 

 

Among the first to graduate were Jenny, Emily, Jade and Rory.  
 

Jenny Archer, from Allendale, enrolled on the course with her daughter Emily. She said: "I’ve really enjoyed the sessions and it’s been a lovely way to spend time with Emily. I’ve learned new things as well as been reminded of things that I'd forgotten from when I had my first baby. 

  

“The hubs are brilliant and a really important source of support for families – I tell everyone I know to come along!” 

 

Jade Henderson, from Haltwhistle, signed up for Peep with son Rory. She said: "I didn't know many other mums with babies, so it's been a good way for me to meet people. I went to SureStart when I was little and my brothers and sisters did too - so it's great to be able to bring Rory to the Family Hub." 
 

The course is delivered by Family Hub Practitioner Jen Moore. Jen previously worked in an admin role at the hub, playing a key role in welcoming families. But when an opportunity came up to get more hands on with delivering sessions, she jumped at the chance and gained her early years educator qualification with Northumberland Skills, the council’s post-16 learning provider.  
 

As well as working with the youngest members of the hubs in Peep - she is also training to support families with older children too.  
 

Jen said: “The children’s centre was a great source of support for me when I first moved to Haltwhistle and didn’t know many people. It’s great to see it grow into a Family Hub so we can welcome a wider age group. 

 

“I love my job and it's really rewarding to feel you can play a part in supporting families through all the different stages of family life.”